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jessie-shapiro · 8 months

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Yoga vs. Gym: Unraveling the Science Behind Which is Better for Your Health

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‍ Are you torn between hitting the gym or joining a yoga class for your fitness needs? You're not alone. The debate between yoga and gym workouts has struck a chord with health enthusiasts around the world. But which one is truly better for your health? In this article, we delve into the science behind these two popular forms of exercise to help you make an informed decision.

The benefits of yoga

Yoga, rooted in ancient practices, offers a holistic approach to fitness, combining physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation. The benefits of yoga extend beyond just physical well-being. Research has shown that regular yoga practice can improve flexibility, increase joint range of motion, and enhance overall body strength. The various poses in yoga help to stretch and lengthen muscles, leading to improved flexibility over time. Moreover, the focus on deep breathing during yoga can enhance lung capacity and oxygen intake, improving cardiovascular health.

But the benefits of yoga go beyond the physical. Numerous studies have highlighted the positive effects of yoga on mental health. The combination of physical movement and mindfulness in yoga helps to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. The practice of mindfulness during yoga promotes a sense of calm and relaxation, allowing individuals to better manage their emotions and improve their overall well-being. Furthermore, the meditative aspects of yoga can enhance self-awareness and promote a more positive outlook on life.

The benefits of going to the gym

Gym workouts, on the other hand, focus on strength training, cardiovascular exercises, and high-intensity workouts. The benefits of hitting the gym are well-documented and can have a significant impact on your overall health. One of the main advantages of gym workouts is the ability to build and maintain muscular strength. Resistance training exercises, such as lifting weights or using resistance machines, help to increase muscle mass, improve bone density, and enhance overall strength.

In addition to strength training, gym workouts also offer cardiovascular benefits. Engaging in activities like running on a treadmill, cycling, or using an elliptical machine can improve heart health, increase stamina, and burn calories. Regular cardiovascular exercise has been linked to a reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attacks and strokes. Moreover, the high-intensity workouts often found in gym settings can help individuals achieve weight loss goals and improve body composition.

The science behind yoga and its impact on health

The practice of yoga has been studied extensively, and the science behind its benefits is well-established. Yoga has been shown to have a positive impact on various aspects of physical health. Research has found that regular yoga practice can lead to improvements in flexibility and joint range of motion. This is due to the stretching and lengthening of muscles that occurs during yoga poses. In fact, a study published in the Journal of Physical Therapy Science found that just 12 weeks of yoga practice significantly improved flexibility in the participants.

More information: The Science Behind the Benefits of Crow Pose

Moreover, yoga has been shown to have beneficial effects on cardiovascular health. The deep breathing techniques used in yoga help to increase lung capacity and oxygen intake, improving overall respiratory function. This can lead to a decrease in resting heart rate and blood pressure, reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. A study published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology found that regular yoga practice was associated with a lower risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and strokes.

The science behind gym workouts and their impact on health

Gym workouts, on the other hand, have a different physiological impact on the body. Strength training exercises, such as lifting weights, have been shown to increase muscle mass and strength. This is due to the stress placed on the muscles during resistance training, which leads to the activation and growth of muscle fibers. A study published in the Journal of Applied Physiology found that resistance training resulted in significant increases in muscle size and strength in both men and women.

In addition to muscular strength, gym workouts also have a positive impact on bone health. Weight-bearing exercises, such as squats and lunges, help to increase bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis. According to a study published in the Journal of Aging and Physical Activity, regular weight-bearing exercise was associated with higher bone mineral density in postmenopausal women.

Comparing the physical benefits of yoga and gym workouts

When it comes to the physical benefits, both yoga and gym workouts offer unique advantages. Yoga is known for its ability to improve flexibility and joint range of motion. The various poses and stretches in yoga help to lengthen and stretch muscles, leading to improved flexibility over time. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals who have tight muscles or suffer from conditions such as back pain or arthritis.

On the other hand, gym workouts focus on building muscular strength and endurance. The resistance training exercises performed in the gym help to increase muscle mass, improve bone density, and enhance overall strength. This can be advantageous for individuals who want to build muscle, improve athletic performance, or prevent age-related muscle loss.

Mental health benefits of yoga and gym workouts

While both yoga and gym workouts have physical benefits, they also have a significant impact on mental health. Yoga, with its emphasis on mindfulness and meditation, has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. The combination of physical movement and deep breathing in yoga promotes relaxation and helps individuals manage their emotions better. Moreover, the meditative aspects of yoga enhance self-awareness and promote a more positive outlook on life.

Gym workouts, on the other hand, can improve mental health by releasing endorphins, which are natural mood-boosting chemicals in the brain. Engaging in high-intensity workouts in the gym can lead to a sense of accomplishment and improved self-esteem. The social aspect of going to the gym, such as connecting with others and being part of a community, can also have positive effects on mental well-being.

Finding the right balance: Incorporating both yoga and gym workouts

Instead of viewing yoga and gym workouts as mutually exclusive, it's possible to incorporate elements of both into your fitness routine. Many fitness enthusiasts find that a combination of yoga and gym workouts offers a well-rounded approach to physical and mental well-being.

For example, you can start your workout with a yoga session to warm up your body, improve flexibility, and promote mindfulness. This can be followed by a gym workout that focuses on strength training and cardiovascular exercises. By combining the benefits of both yoga and gym workouts, you can maximize the positive impact on your overall health.

Yoga and gym for specific health goals

Depending on your specific health goals, you may find that yoga or gym workouts are more aligned with your needs. If you're looking to improve flexibility, manage stress, and promote mindfulness, yoga may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if your goals include building muscle, improving cardiovascular fitness, or achieving weight loss, gym workouts may be more beneficial.

It's important to listen to your body and choose the form of exercise that feels right for you. Experiment with different types of yoga classes or gym workouts to find what resonates with you the most. Remember that everyone's fitness journey is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another.

Conclusion: Choosing what works best for you

In the debate between yoga and gym workouts, there is no definitive answer as to which is better for your health. Both options offer unique benefits that can positively impact your physical and mental well-being. The key is to find the right balance and incorporate elements of both into your fitness routine.

If you're looking for increased flexibility, stress reduction, and improved mindfulness, yoga can be a valuable addition to your routine. On the other hand, if building muscle, improving cardiovascular fitness, or achieving weight loss are your goals, gym workouts can provide the necessary tools and equipment.

Ultimately, the choice between yoga and gym workouts comes down to personal preference and individual goals. The most important thing is to find an exercise regimen that you enjoy and can stick to in the long run. Whether you choose yoga, gym workouts, or a combination of both, the journey to better health starts with taking that first step. So lace up your sneakers or roll out your yoga mat, and embark on a path to a healthier, happier you.

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embracingspirit · 8 months

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The Final Quarter

Self-reflection is a humbling process. It’s essential to find out why you think, say, and do certain things…. then better yourself. It’s been a little quiet on here since I have been swamped with teaching, gardening, and I also completed a 30 days of yoga series this month. We are headed into the final quarter of the year and I find it’s a good time to reflect on your beginning of the year…

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#30 days of yoga #Adaptive Yoga #awareness #Essential Oils #happiness #health #healthy #healthy living #life #Love #meditation #Mindfulness #reflections #truth #vulnerability #wellness #word of the year #Yoga #yoga practice

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a-ninja-magpie · 1 year

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30 Days of Yoga day ... 23?

feeling ... annoyed

I do like how yoga makes me feel but I am finding myself resentful, or possibly just PMSing. Or possibly Adriene is annoying me with her lack of modifications for certain things (i.e. quad stretches) and her using this 'try and roll down slowly vertebra by vertebra' thing which DOES NOT WORK when you have a sizeable rear end and no matter how slowly you go your back is NOT GOING TO TOUCH THE MAT for a WHILE.

#cw: exercise #cw: weight mention #30 days of yoga #yoga with adriene #time to research fat yogis

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irrec · 3 months

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30 days of guided yoga later and I was actually able to maintain a silent practice on my own.

#ywa #30 days of yoga #30 days of meditation #mostly dry jan #personal #me

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thailand-yoga-teacher-training · 7 months

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Unlocking the Power Within: 8 Yoga Poses to Naturally Control Cholesterol Levels

Cholesterol is a waxy substance found in the blood that is essential for the body to function properly. However, when cholesterol levels become imbalanced, it can lead to a variety of health problems, including heart disease. High levels of LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, also known as "bad" cholesterol, can build up in the arteries and increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes. On the other hand, HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, or "good" cholesterol, helps remove LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream, reducing the risk of heart disease.

The role of yoga in managing cholesterol levels

While diet and medication are commonly used to manage cholesterol levels, the practice of yoga can also be an effective complementary therapy. Yoga combines physical postures (asanas), breathing exercises (pranayama), and meditation to promote overall health and well-being. By incorporating specific yoga poses into your routine, you can naturally control cholesterol levels and improve heart health.

Benefits of practicing yoga for cholesterol control

The benefits of practicing yoga for cholesterol control extend beyond managing cholesterol levels. Regular yoga practice can also reduce blood pressure, improve blood circulation, increase lung capacity, and enhance overall cardiovascular health. Additionally, yoga promotes relaxation and reduces stress, which are important factors in maintaining healthy cholesterol levels. By incorporating yoga into your daily routine, you can experience a holistic approach to cholesterol management that addresses both physical and mental well-being.

Yoga poses to reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol

Bridge Pose (Setu Bandhasana): Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Lift your hips off the ground, pressing your feet and shoulders into the mat. This pose stretches the chest, neck, and spine while stimulating the abdominal organs and thyroid gland, which helps lower LDL cholesterol levels.

Bow Pose (Dhanurasana): Lie on your stomach with your arms by your sides. Bend your knees and reach back to grab your ankles. Lift your chest and thighs off the ground, creating a bow shape with your body. This pose strengthens the back muscles and stretches the entire front of the body, improving digestion and reducing LDL cholesterol.

Plow Pose (Halasana): Lie on your back with your arms beside you. Lift your legs over your head, touching your toes to the ground behind you. Support your lower back with your hands and keep your legs straight. This pose stimulates the thyroid gland, which helps regulate cholesterol levels and metabolism.

Yoga poses to increase HDL (good) cholesterol

Cobra Pose (Bhujangasana): Lie on your stomach with your legs extended and the tops of your feet on the floor. Place your hands under your shoulders and lift your chest off the ground, keeping your elbows close to your body. This pose strengthens the muscles in the back, increases lung capacity, and stimulates the digestive system, promoting the production of HDL cholesterol.

Fish Pose (Matsyasana): Lie on your back with your legs extended and arms by your sides. Lift your chest off the ground, arching your back and placing the top of your head on the floor. This pose stretches the chest and throat, stimulates the thyroid gland, and increases HDL cholesterol levels.

Upward-Facing Dog Pose (Urdhva Mukha Svanasana): Start in a plank position with your palms on the floor under your shoulders. Straighten your arms, lifting your chest and thighs off the ground. Keep your legs engaged and your shoulders away from your ears. This pose strengthens the arms, shoulders, and back, while also increasing HDL cholesterol levels.

Read More: The 5 best Ashtanga poses for beginners

Yoga poses for overall heart health

Mountain Pose (Tadasana): Stand tall with your feet together and arms by your sides. Ground your feet into the mat and lengthen your spine. This pose improves posture, increases blood circulation, and reduces stress, promoting overall heart health.

Warrior II Pose (Virabhadrasana II): Stand with your feet wide apart and arms extended parallel to the floor. Turn your left foot slightly inwards and your right foot outwards. Bend your right knee, keeping it directly over your ankle, and gaze over your right hand. This pose strengthens the legs, opens the chest, and improves cardiovascular endurance.

Corpse Pose (Savasana): Lie flat on your back with your legs extended and arms by your sides, palms facing up. Close your eyes and relax your entire body. This pose allows for deep relaxation, reduces stress, and helps regulate blood pressure and heart rate.

Tips for incorporating yoga into your cholesterol management routine

To get the most out of your yoga practice for cholesterol control, consider the following tips:

Start slowly and gradually increase the duration and intensity of your practice.

Practice regularly, aiming for at least three to four sessions per week.

Listen to your body and modify poses as needed to accommodate any physical limitations or injuries.

Combine yoga with other forms of exercise, such as walking or swimming, to further improve cardiovascular health.

Seek guidance from a qualified yoga instructor to ensure proper alignment and technique.

Precautions and considerations when practicing yoga for cholesterol control

While yoga is generally safe for most people, it's important to take certain precautions when practicing for cholesterol control. If you have any underlying health conditions or injuries, consult with your healthcare professional before starting a new yoga routine. Additionally, pregnant women and individuals with certain medical conditions, such as high blood pressure or herniated discs, should approach certain poses with caution or avoid them altogether. Always listen to your body and modify or skip poses that don't feel right for you.

Other lifestyle changes to complement your yoga practice

In addition to incorporating yoga into your cholesterol management routine, making certain lifestyle changes can further support your efforts. These include:

Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.

Limiting the consumption of saturated and trans fats, found in processed foods and fatty meats.

Quitting smoking and avoiding secondhand smoke.

Maintaining a healthy weight through regular exercise and portion control.

Managing stress through activities like meditation, deep breathing, and mindfulness.

By combining yoga with these healthy lifestyle choices, you can enhance the effectiveness of your cholesterol management plan and promote overall heart health.

Conclusion: Embracing the power of yoga for better heart health

As you embark on your journey to naturally control your cholesterol levels, remember that yoga is not a quick fix but a lifelong practice. By incorporating these eight yoga poses into your daily routine, you can unlock the power within yourself to manage cholesterol levels and improve heart health. Stay consistent, be patient with yourself, and enjoy the transformative benefits that yoga has to offer. With dedication and mindfulness, you can cultivate a healthier, happier heart and embrace a more balanced approach to wellness.

#home yoga #free yoga #online yoga #yoga at home #at home yoga #morning yoga #yoga practice #full yoga class #30 days of yoga #free yoga videos #home yoga practice #yoga with adrienne #30 day yoga journey #30 day yoga challenge #austin yoga instructor

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womenslive · 2 years

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Yoga For Self Discipline | Yoga With Adriene

#tmblr #tumblrgram #tumblrs #tumblraesthetic #tumblrfeed #tumblrpost #yoga (sport)#yoga practice #30 days of yoga #yoga with adrienne

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obsob · 1 year

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big man...why is he so big...(hes full of love)

#mine #original #oug im tired!!! sleepy!!#what hve i done this week... i processes like 30 orders bc i had such a backlog OGUG. did 2 drawings for my portfolio. did this drawing #also did sm good planning! and sketching!#i was gna colour my portfolio drawings but im. pretty worn out so now maybe i will not #my lower back has been rlly sore also so . im gna try n avoid sitting at my desk heeh #its like half 12 whilst im queueing this....gna hve sm lunch soon. adn then read maybe. i finished my book this morn it was ver good #foxen bloom by. someone. cannae remember !!! very good nice an short #its a nice day..might go 4 walk #ive started on the sleeves for my jumper uehue !!!! am def gna run out of wool so annoying....will b short like. half a ball.#im gettin close 2 finishing my blanket....kinda...i ordered too much wool for that kjbsdkjbs #yes yes reading. i should do yoga maybe. world of pain #okay goodbye

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mellotronmkll · 2 months

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Would love to work my way back up to being the type of person who can do more than 2 or 3 things per week and in fact possibly even does multiple things in the same day but boy I am not there yet

#Still make one plan and then need 5 full days to recover and I'm in awe of people who are like #Yes I had my yoga class this morning then I'm gonna go grab lunch with a friend then I need to go home and work on this thing for a few hou #Then gonna go to a party like that is so far from my life just thinking about it makes me feel anxious but #I would genuinely love for that to be my life but it feels so unthinkable rn #But I just have to keep slowly working at it I guess #Because I've been like that at points in my life however right now we're at the #If I leave my house for a 30 minute walk every day and see one other person besides my partner in a 7 day period #And do One hobby for like 20 minutes a day then that's all I can manage and the week was a success 😭#But i guess we all have to start somewhere #I. Am literally just so fucking exhausted all the time

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fitforestfairy · 4 days

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New 30-Day Yoga Challenge 🧘🏻‍♀️🪷

Yoga with Kassandra’s Flexible Body, Flexible Mind

For years already, 30-Day yoga challenges have been working incredibly well for me.

I love the structure, the sense of comfort the level of predictability and routine they offer, the taking away the guesswork when I get up first thing in the morning and I already know what I have to do. I love to compare my progress and see how the same poses feel differently on Day 1 and Day 30.

At the same time, I’ve learnt to be, well, more flexible! I don’t aim to do the 30 days in a row and beat myself up if I miss one day anymore. It’s more like aiming for 30 days of structured practice in the next few weeks. And that works really well for me. I’m also not ashamed to modify whatever is that I need to modify.

I started this particular challenge one year ago, almost to the date. I couldn’t finish it because my life started to fall apart and it was the beginning of what would be a really nasty divorce.

I’m in a much better place right now. I’m rising from the ashes of what was the most painful experience of my adult life. And I’m ready to tackle this challenge again, believing in myself, in the process of healing in different ways and pretty confident that I will be able to finish it this time 🙏🏼

#fitforestfairy #fitblr #amateur yogi #yoga lover #30 days of yoga #30 day challenge #yoga with kassandra #flexibility #flexible body flexible mind #fitness journey #weight loss journey #life after divorce #fairy talks #wellness #mental health

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whatimdoing-here · 4 months

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Glad I have to day off to get my house... Looking less like something exploded. Wish I'd taken the rest of the week.

#groceries and laundry and toys put away and pictures to edit #a kid's fever and cough to manage and helping with lego and knex oy so much #also need to get some more row days in before 30 days of yoga

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embracingspirit · 10 months

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30 Days of Yoga Together

They say it takes twenty one days to create a new habit. I am not sure who “they” are but it seems like a logical and probably pretty true statement. Years ago when I had my great wake up and decided that I needed major changes in my life, I wanted the results to happen immediately but was kindly reminded by a friend that for as long as it took to get unhealthy, it would take that long to get…

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#30 days of yoga #accountability #habits #healthy habits #online yoga #Yoga #yoga at home #yoga teacher

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a-ninja-magpie · 1 year

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30 Days of Yoga Day 6

Adriene: Keep it going! You're doing great! You got this!!

Me: lol. lmao.

My core is simply not core-ing but one does one's best.

#30 days of yoga #cw: exercise #yoga with adriene

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alpesh-yoga · 2 months

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30 Days Yoga Challenge For Beginners

Benefits of 30 Day Yoga Challenge:

Yoga enhances circulation, supports healthy joints, and promotes overall bodily vitality.

Physical Well-Being: Over the course of 30-days, practicing yoga every day produces amazing physical results. It enhances balance, strength, and flexibility. Asanas target different muscle groups, which help tone and shape the body.

Mental Clarity and Stress Reduction: When combined with mindful breathing exercises, the meditative elements of yoga promote emotional and mental equilibrium. By controlling the body's stress response system, regular practice has been demonstrated to lower stress levels. This results in mental clarity and a more optimistic view on life.

Enhanced Respiratory Functions: The awareness and control of breath is highly valued in yoga. Lung capacity increases with exercises such as pranayama (breath control techniques), which enhance respiratory function. This may result in more vitality and a stronger sense of wellbeing.

Improved Sleep Quality: Yoga's relaxation practices, especially in the last pose, Savasana, prime the body for sound sleep. Practitioners frequently report better sleep quality and a more regular sleep pattern after 30 days.

Increases Self Awareness: Self-analysis and introspection are encouraged by yoga. People develop a greater awareness of their own bodies, minds, and emotions via mindful practice. Better choices and actions can result from this increased self-awareness.

Strengthened Mind-Body Connection: Yoga emphasizes the connection of mind, body, and breath, and is therefore an embodiment practice. The mind-body connection is strengthened and a sense of harmony and togetherness is fostered by this increased awareness of physical sensations and movements.

Cultivation of Discipline and Consistency: Making the commitment to a 30-day yoga challenge develops consistency and discipline. It creates a schedule that lasts past the challenge period and lays the groundwork for a lifetime of yoga practice.

#yoga #100 hour yoga teacher training in goa #meditation #30 day yoga challenge #yoga benefits #yoga beginners #pranayama

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